In Karnataka's Hubballi, a 19-year-old man has been apprehended for allegedly raping a minor girl over a span of several months, leading to her pregnancy. According to authorities, the accused reportedly assaulted the 17-year-old victim multiple times between January 1st and May 3rd of this year. It's reported that the perpetrator was acquainted with the survivor through school and subjected her to verbal abuse, threats, and coercion.
Renuka Sukumar, the Police Commissioner of Hubballi-Dharwad, stated that the incident came to light on May 3rd when information about a Medico-Legal Case involving the pregnant minor girl was received around 5 pm. Prompt action was taken by law enforcement upon receiving the complaint, with the immediate registration of a case and subsequent arrest of the accused. Authorities are ensuring all necessary steps are taken in the investigation process.
In addition to the case registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (Pocso) due to the survivor's status as a minor, the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act has also been invoked as the girl belongs to the Scheduled Tribe (ST).
Simultaneously, there were protests staged by pro-Hindu activists and BJP workers outside the local police station, demanding justice for the survivor. They voiced their concerns and grievances against the state government led by Revanth Reddy, advocating for swift and fair action in response to the heinous crime perpetrated against the victim.